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What is the difference between ferrosilicon and metallic silicon?

Ferrosilicon and metallic silicon are two alloys commonly used in the metallurgical industry. Both materials are composed of silicon, a chemical element with the symbol Si and atomic number 14. However, there are some significant differences between ferrosilicon and metallic silicon in terms of composition, properties, and uses.

Ferrosilicon is an alloy of iron and silicon. It typically contains 15 to 90 percent silicon with smaller amounts of other elements such as carbon, phosphorus, and sulfur. The amount of silicon in ferrosilicon determines its properties, such as melting point, density and hardness. The composition of ferrosilicon can vary depending on its intended specific application.
Silicon metal, on the other hand, is the pure form of silicon. It is made by heating quartz and carbon at extremely high temperatures in an electric furnace. The resulting material has a crystal structure of almost 100% silicon. Metallic silicon is commonly used as a raw material for the production of other silicon-based materials such as silicones, silanes and semiconductors.

Ferrosilicon is a hard and brittle material that is resistant to corrosion and oxidation. It has a high melting point and density, making it suitable for steelmaking, cast iron production and other industrial applications. Ferrosilicon is also a good source of silicon for the production of silicon-based alloys
Metallic silicon, on the other hand, is a shiny silver-gray material with extremely high purity and a high melting point. It is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity and is commonly used in the production of electronic components such as computer chips, solar cells and semiconductors. Silicon metal is also used as an alloying agent in the production of aluminum and steel.

Ferrosilicon is mainly used as an additive in steelmaking and cast iron production. Adding to molten iron can improve the strength, hardness and corrosion resistance of molten iron. Ferrosilicon is also used in the production of other alloys such as silicon manganese, silicon aluminum and silicon bronze.
Metallic silicon has a wide range of applications. Its excellent electrical conductivity makes it a key material in the production of electronic components such as computer chips, solar cells and semiconductors. Metallic silicon is also used to produce aluminum alloys for the automotive and aerospace industries. It is used as a raw material for the production of silicones, silanes and other silicon-based materials.